Are you suffering from separation anxiety? Even though it is totally normal, there are things you can do to improve your quality of life.
Here are some strategies that have been proven to work.
Approach & Remind
First, many parents use their babies’ favourite blanket or stuffed animal as a source of comfort during a stressful situation. The blanket or toy will eventually be thrown out and replaced with something new.
Telling your baby that the loved blanket will be replaced as it is picked up from the bin is a wonderful way to create excitement and lessen anxiety, says April Benson, president of Babyjams.com.
Think of it as a new adventure. Remind your baby that it will be fun to pick up the old blanket and remember the comforting feelings of taking naps and cuddling with it.
Just the thought of having something new to snuggle with can bring your baby comfort.
Give Yourself Lots of Attention
Separation anxiety can be caused by one or both parents trying to spend too much time with another baby in a crying situation. Take your baby to work with you for a day or a few days to give the separation anxiety the boost it needs.
This practice also allows you to get some much needed work done while you’re away from your baby. Some days you might want to leave the baby with grandparents for a day or two.
While you are at work, you can tell your baby you will be back soon. It might help to allow your baby to pick out the best toy for his return or find the most comfortable spot.
Avoid Over-Claudication
Claudication can cause your baby to think he’s missing out on something. Rather than reading stories, singing songs or talking, avoid over-Claudication by simply doing nothing.
For example, if you have to go to the bathroom for a moment or you’re on a conference call, don’t rush back to the baby. Just stay in the bathroom, put your shoes on and take a few minutes to yourself.
Let your baby hear you get out of the bathroom and take a few deep breaths and return.
If your baby needs your attention right now, you can tell him what you’ll be doing when you get back. For example, “When I come back you can play with this toy and I’ll make us a bowl of oatmeal.”
You might be surprised how well this works. You’ll know you did everything you could to help the baby transition.
Give Your Baby Space & Time
Your baby might be too young for this, but maybe you and your partner can divide up the baby duties. He will give her a bath while you do dishes. You can take turns with nighttime feeding and diaper changing.
By giving your baby time and space, he will know that his home is his place. You’ll soon have some time to try out that list of new casinos online, in baby’s presence, without him crying for direct attention.
You can also divide responsibilities with other members of your family, such as grandparents. For example, when the grandparents arrive, the grandparents will take the baby for a little while, while you take care of household chores or other responsibilities.
